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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #12119
45 days ago
77

Face dark - #12119

Kabir

I am really concerned about my face dark issues that have been bothering me for a while now. It all started about 6 months ago when I noticed my face darkening, especially around my eyes and cheeks. At first, I thought it was just tiredness or lack of sleep, but now I'm starting to think it's something more. I’ve tried different creams and brightening serums, but nothing seems to be helping. I even asked my friend, who is a skincare enthusiast, and she suggested exfoliating more often, but my face dark spots just keep getting darker. I went to a dermatologist last month who just recommended some sunscreen and a vitamin C serum, but like... I wear sunscreen already! I can't tell if it’s hormonal or just aging or what. I'm not sure if I should be worried about my face darkening or if it's normal. Has anyone here had their face darken like this? Did it just disappear on its own or what did you try? I'm starting to feel a bit down about it. Just really looking for any advice, thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Facial darkening, especially in areas like around the eyes and cheeks, can be concerning, but there are several potential causes that can typically be addressed with the right approach. It’s positive that you have seen a dermatologist, but let’s explore some possible explanations given the persistence you’re experiencing. One common option is hyperpigmentation, which can be triggered by several factors including sun exposure, hormonal changes, and even certain medications. It sounds like you are already using sunscreen, which is indeed essential to prevent further pigmentation. Ensure that your sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection and is used every day, applying generously and reapplying every two hours when outdoors. The vitamin C serum recommended is a good choice as it can help brighten the skin and fade dark spots over time. Consistency is key here, so continuous usage might eventually yield results. It’s also worth considering if hormonal shifts, like those related to stress or changes in your contraceptive method, could be contributing factors. Discussing any changes with your healthcare provider might provide insights. Check your skincare products for any irritants that might exacerbate pigmentation — sometimes exfoliating too aggressively can irritate the skin, leading to more pigmentation. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and getting quality sleep can support skin health. If these avenues don’t resolve the issue, seeking a second dermatological opinion might help as there could be other underlying conditions like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at play, requiring a tailored treatment approach. Don’t forget, dermatological laser treatments or chemical peels can offer more immediate improvements if deemed suitable by a specialist. Always seek personalized medical advice, especially if there’s any concern about new or worsening symptoms.

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